Dade, is experiencing renewed interest by customers.
The East Ridge at Cutler Bay retirement community is experiencing renewed interest by customers and substantially higher sales which are strong indicators of improving economic conditions in southwest Miami-Dade County.
According to Brad Hunter, chief economist and national director of consulting for Metrostudy, sellers are able to sell their homes much more quickly in the southwestern Miami-Dade neighborhoods these days and this empowers seniors with more mobility and more choices.
“Sales in 2012 of East Ridge residences are four times higher than sales in 2011,”said Rick Drew, director of sales. “In previous years we were encountering customers who wanted to move to East Ridge but couldn’t sell their homes. There simplyweren’t new buyers in the market despite interest.”
When seniors decide they want a lifestyle change, their ability to sell an existing home rather than draw on their investments and savings significantly affects their decision.
East Ridge nowoffers relocation services with many customers taking advantage of the opportunity. By using qualified real estate consultants, customers have a more realistic expectation of current home values, guidance in selling their home and are able to have their homes sell more quickly
“The concept of East Ridge lifestyle is more widely accepted since seniorswant to be assured of their future care as well as have the opportunity to enjoy the social aspects the community offers,” added Drew.
East Ridge is a life care community, designed for seniors who are living independently butwant the security of future healthcare services including assisted and skilled nursing care.The average entry fees start at $98,000 for a one-bedroom residence and residents have freedom from home maintenance and the added security of onsite health services.
East Ridge is also reinvesting in the 50 yearold community. Drew said that since 2011, over $4 million has been invested in community-wide improvements, including a newWellness Center which offers residents state-of-the-art spa amenities, equipment and services.
“From fitness training and classes to one-onone personal training, we felt it was critical to offer top notchwellness facilities whichwould attract new buyers,” said Drew. “The response has been overwhelming. Our customers now are requesting to see theWellness Center before they see our models. This is clearly indicating today’s seniors are placing much more emphasis on active aging and wellness.”
An extensive renovation and rehabilitation program has involved public buildings’ exteriors which will be followed by interior improvements including the Lifestyle Center and auditorium.The community is being updated to blend with the KeyWest architecture style that was initially introduced in theWellness Center design.
Also, residential residences are being updated as they as they are sold. Exterior improvements include replacing and added screened patio enclosures, front entry doors and new windows. A total home makeover is involved with interior space being completely gutted.
Bathrooms and kitchens incorporate aging-inplace features such as raised vanities and water closets. Each residence will have new appliances, cabinets and countertops aswell as new lighting fixtures and raised electrical outlets.
“Residents have the advantage of living in a new home while enjoyed the benefits of an established community,”said Drew.
East Ridge at Cutler Bay offers monthly educational events that are open to the public.
For information or for a personal tour, please call (305) 256-3564 or visit their website at www.eastridgeatcutlerbay.com
